Frequently asked questions........
What is Counselling?
Counselling is characterised by an understanding and acceptance, a deep empathy and openness on the part of the counsellor. There is no set agenda and the person in counselling is free to explore anything in their personal history and/or their current experiences.
Counselling sessions are usually once a week and last for 50 minutes, although other arrangements are available-we can discuss this when we meet.
The sessions are confidential and a safe space for you to explore your feelings and thoughts. I believe it is important that you find the right counsellor for you, so please get in touch to book your free initial consultation session at either the Brighton or Hove venue:
What can I expect from our first session?
I offer the first session as a free session, as I believe the therapeutic relationship is key in counselling and so important for you to feel the opportunity is there to come and meet me, to get a sense of me and decide if you feel comfortable, without the concern of any expense and/or commitment.
The initial session is an opportunity for you to think about what your expectations are of counselling and bring any questions about how counselling works? There will also be time in the initial session for me to talk through with you about certain aspects of counselling, such as confidentiality-but there will be no paperwork at this point.
The rest of the session is there for you, to use as you choose. If it feels like we could work together, we can start to think about on-going sessions and times that suit you. It feels really important to say that there is no obligation or pressure. I remember what that first session can feel like and that you are in control.
…..and further sessions?
Well firstly, it will be great to see you again. In the second session, we’ll go through a contract, which is quite informal, but important as it covers important issues like confidentiality within the therapeutic relationship and we will look at deciding on a regular time.
With the paperwork done, the session will be about you again. You are in control of the sessions and I will always hold in mind the importance of empowerment. This can be a bit scary at first, particularly if you have never found yourself in a space where you are encouraged to take control of your life.
I offer a warm and empathic approach to my work, which means that I will listen and accept you, without judgement. You will determine the content of the sessions and I will try to understand and encourage you to explore some of these issues. I will work with you at your pace, as there are no rights or wrongs